Far Eastern University overcame a 15-point deficit before pulling away in overtime to defeat the University of the Philippines, 74-67, and remain unbeaten in the UAAP Season 89 women’s basketball tournament on Sunday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
The Lady Tamaraws improved to 2-0, marking their first 2-0 start since 2018, the same season they last advanced to the UAAP Finals.
FEU appeared headed for a regulation victory after taking a 64-63 lead on Victoria Pasilang’s hook shot with 1:06 remaining. But the Lady Tamaraws failed to close out the Fighting Maroons from the free throw line.
Elaine Patio and Amyah Espanol combined for just 1-of-4 from the stripe in the final 20 seconds, giving UP an opportunity to force an overtime.
Shanina Tapawan took advantage, scoring on a crucial layup to level the contest at 65-all. Pasilang then attempted a game-winning jumper at the buzzer, but her shot missed its mark.
FEU took control in the extra period, limiting UP to just two points while scoring nine of its own. Erica Lopez then sank her free throws in the closing moments to put the game out of reach.
Shane Salvani led the Lady Tamaraws with 17 points, six rebounds and two steals, while Patio finished with 16 points and seven rebounds.
Pasilang contributed 15 points and seven boards, with Lopez and Espanol adding 13 and 11 points, respectively, as five FEU players reached double figures.
The Fighting Maroons had five players in double figures. Blessing Francis and Kennan Ka scored 12 points apiece, Tiani Abrams had 11 points and six rebounds, while Kaye Pesquera and Tapawan each contributed 10. UP fell to 1-1. (Adrian Co)
